Indy Standard

For the first time, student-athletes from Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) are participating as the inaugural Marion County-IPS delegation at the Special Olympics Indiana State Winter Games. This marks a significant achievement for IPS, highlighting their commitment to providing opportunities for all students.

The team is led by Marion County Coordinator Matt Mccomish, who praised the athletes' dedication despite challenges. "Our athletes trained with unmatched dedication despite the challenges," Mccomish stated. He emphasized that this is just the beginning of what their Special Olympics program can achieve.

The athletes, coached by Chrisman Harding from Arsenal Technical High School and supported by coaches Lindsey McComish, Frances Rivera, Lisa Rossell, and Nathan Vedder, have been preparing through innovative training methods due to lack of access to traditional facilities. Their preparation included resistance training and simulated exercises for snowboarding and snowshoeing events.

Nathan Vedder highlighted the broader impact of this participation: “This journey is not just about today’s competition,” he said. “It’s about overcoming barriers and building a foundation for the next.” He expressed gratitude towards Special Olympics Indiana and various supporters including Chris Akers and Jen Kelso for their role in equipping the athletes.

Vedder also acknowledged Jen Kelso and Jeff Mohler's support in facilitating IPS's journey to these games. “This moment would not have been possible without the strategic leadership and support of Jenn Kelso and Jeff Mohar,” he noted.

As these IPS athletes compete in finals representing George Washington High School and Arsenal Technical High School, they are setting an example for future generations.